Dec. 1, 2009 Issue 6

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December 2009 - Vol 12

P R E S E N T E D

B Y

T H E

G O L F I

T E A M

Happy Holidays to All! from The Golfi Team!

Rob Golfi Sales Representative

Sharon Stafford Sales Representative

Hans Marcelissen Sales Representative

Wendy Murray-Nicholson* Sales Representative

Karen Hine Media/Marketing Client Relations Rep

Sarah DalliCardillo Administrative Assistant

Sell Your Home with the GOLFI TEAM The GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada RE/MAX has over 18,000 Sales Representatives in Canada

Rosemary Fournier Administrative Assistant

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Page 2

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

About Rob Golfi

S

ince the inception of his career in 1997, Golfi has Rob recognized that understanding his clients’ needs is essential to providing excellent service.

As business grew, Rob assembled the Golfi Team in an effort to maintain the same level of professionalism clients have come to expect. Shortly thereafter in 2003, the team received the prestigious honour of being among the top 100 Real Estate Teams for RE/MAX Canada, and this status continues to date.

Rob’s experience and aggressive negotiating skills have earned him every major honour awarded by RE/MAX, including President’s Club, 100% Club, Platinum Club, Chairman’s Club, Hall of Fame, the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006 and the SRES® designation in 2009.

Having worked with many of the industry’s professionals

by: Rob Golfi

over the years, he has the necessary edge to best negotiate the sale of your home.

Any agent can list your house, but Rob’s knowledge, marketing extensive background and dedication gives clients peace of mind when dealing with the single most important investment in their lives. With years of combined experience, the Golfi Team can provide your home with a level of exposure that most agents cannot. Utilizing a team approach also means that they will likely find a purchaser to buy your home sooner, rather than waiting for other agents to approach you with potential buyers.

Ranked in the top 5 of nearly 2,000 sales agents in the Hamilton-Burlington and Niagara areas, listing with Rob and the Golfi Team is the right choice when choosing someone to represent your best interest. -Å

SUDOKU 5 7

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our home has been cleaned, freshly painted and you are ready to put it on the market.

Could you sell it by yourself? No doubt you could, but when you consider all aspects of the selling process, chances are you will choose to use the services of a Rob Golfi -- a licensed, trained professional who has the knowledge and skills to ensure you get the best possible price and that the selling process goes as smoothly as possible.

Frequently, people who attempt to sell their home without the help of a the Golfi Team do so in hopes of saving the commission or fee. There is a good chance, however, that such an approach will not pay off as potential buyers will often submit lower offers in such cases.

In addition, without the help of Rob Golfi and access to the Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) it will likely take significantly longer to sell your home.

The MLS® is best described as a cooperative marketing system to ensure maximum exposure of properties for sale.

Fundamentally, it is a central registry of properties used by REALTORS® to match buyers with properties for sale.

Before attempting to sell your own home, ask yourself the following questions: Do you have sufficient knowledge to determine the price range for your home? Are you aware of changing market conditions and of recent sales of similar homes in your area?

Do you have the skills and resources to advertise and market your home effectively?

Do you know what types of financing are available? Are you informed about various financing methods?

Do you have a network of contacts to produce potential buyers and are you able to screen out unqualified prospects -- people who are just curious? Are you comfortable inviting strangers into your home at 9 p.m. because they saw your sign?

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Do you know if the buyer of your home is qualified with a bank – or do believe the buyer's word, and what should you do if the buyer fails to close.

Are you available seven days a week to show your home?

(Buyers will expect you to be available at their convenience, not yours).

Do you have good negotiating skills? Are you comfortable haggling face-to-face over the price? Will you be ready to reveal known defects of your home and are you familiar with your legal obligations in this regard?

Can you write a legally binding contract? Do you have offer forms readily available? Do you have a lawyer to advise you on essential terms that must be in the contract?

Can you close a sale? Are you familiar with the many steps required after an offer has been accepted?

6 7 8 9

If you can confidently answer "yes" to all these questions, you probably could sell your own home. However, most homeowners recognize the wisdom in working with the Golfi Team who has the knowledge and expertise to handle the many complex details of a home sale. -

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Could You Sell Your Own Home?

Of Course You Could!

2 3

4 6

December 2009

1 3 6 2 9

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The Solution Fill in the grid above, so that each row of 9 squares, each column of nine and each section of nine (three squares by three) contains the numbers 1 through 9 in any order. There is only one solution for the puzzle and the numbers shown can NOT be changed.

The Golfi Team got us such a great price on our home, Mrs. Claus and I decided to take a vacation!

www.golfiteam.com

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December 2009

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

Page 3

Grimsby Homes Rob Golfi* just listed 3.2 Acres

just listed

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

CODE # R19

CODE # C20

GRIMSBY $689,900 4 Bedroom Custom Built

GRIMSBY $269,900 Legal 3 Bedroom Duplex

GRIMSBY $300,000 3 Level Back Split

A love-at-first-sight experience as you enter into this gorgeous 4 bedroom, custom-built beauty, located on 3.2 acres of private landscape. This one-of-a kind home boasts a bright and spacious layout with ample room for storage and a mature or growing family.

All brick, side by side legal duplex. Each unit consists of 3 bedrooms and tenants pay their own heat and hydro with separate gas and hydro metrs. Monthly income is $1,890. Located close to downtown Grimsby on fantastic size lot.

Tremendous curb appeal! 3 level back split with oversized roms! Vaulted ceilings, new windows and exterior doors, central air and chimney replaced and shingles in 04. Open concept kitchen/dining room and living room with fireplace.

CODE # D29

CODE # E48

GRIMSBY $314,900 5 Level Side Split

GRIMSBY $369,900 Fabulous Four Bedroom

5 levels of living space! 3+1 bedroom home. Gleaming Brazilian Cherry & Maple hardwood floors. Custom Touch blinds over ample windows. Master has huge 4pc ensuite with whirlpool tub and walk-in closet. Family room with fireplace.

Fabulous open concept 4 bedroom, better than new with plenty of upgrades!

Cherry kitchen has floating island & slider to fenced yard. Impressive foyer & open staircase has upgraded railings.

Master with ensuite & walk-in closet.

wAterfront

CODE # M5

CODE # L70

GRIMSBY

$289,900

CODE # K5

GRIMSBY

$214,900

Nearby School

Quiet Location

1300 sq ft bungalow with 3 bedrooms & room for another in the professionally finished basement. Open concept eat-in kitchen with vaulted ceiling & peninsula breakfast bar.

Beautifully maintained & move in condition.

Walk to schools, parks & lake.

Loads of potential and priced to move!

New roof 09, refaced kitchen, windows 06. Spacious living room, separate dining room. Fenced yard, large 12 x 24 deck and parking for 6 cars!.

wAterfront

CODE # L143

CODE # L71

GRIMSBY $1,499,900 Fabulous Lakefront

GRIMSBY $1,750,000 2 Acre Lakefront

Fabulous waterfront property! Custom built 3000 sq ft home with Lake views every room. Maple hardwood floors, granite counters, master suite with access to back deck, ensuite & walk-in shower.

Handicap adaptable!

Huge waterfront lot! 3+1 bedroom home with additional self contained in law suite. Open concept great room with cathedral ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors and floor to ceiling-wall to wall windows!

wAterfront

CODE # M10

GRIMSBY

$307,900 Desirable Area

Classic 2 Storey in desirable area at the base of the Niagara escarpment. Features beautifully refinished hardwood floors, spacious living room and dining room, and showcase fireplace in family room.

Professionally finished basement with rec-room.

CODE # C8

GRIMSBY $214,900 Grimsby Beach!

Unique features include slate flooring, custom fieldstone & roundstone work, original pine plank floors, custom cast iron doors & trim, antique Godin wood stove. 2 bedrooms, den and loft, upper balcony with Lakeviews.

48 Acres

CODE # C33

GRIMSBY

$669,900

CODE # S29

GRIMSBY

$479,900

Lakefront!!

First Class!

3+1 bedroom in Bal Harbour with gleaming hardwood floors & new broadloom. Great room has wall-to-wall windows and spectacular lake views.

Several walkouts to backyard paradise with heated inground pool surrounded by amazing perennial gardens.

2750 sq ft in executive neighbourhood close to the lake. 4 bedroom has loads of updates: carpets, shingles, ensuite with claw tub and glass shower, hi-eff furnace and more! Beautiful hardwoods and gorgeous fireplace.

CODE # T398

CODE # B227

GRIMSBY

$749,000 Country Living

Custom Colonial on 48 acres! 3 bedrooms with full finished attic. Master has 5pc ensuite w/euro shower and spa tub plus cedar lined closet. ž� Oak plank floors, solid birch kitchen w/granite counters and cozy fireplace.

Call Today 905-945-0188

GRIMSBY

$649,900 42.22 Acres

Bungalow with 2 wood burning fireplaces, hardwoods in all 3 bedrooms and living room. Updates include: windows, alarm system, roof, shingles, furnace and water softener. Second kitchen in basement with cold storage.

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Page 4

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

December 2009

Legal Lessons

Your New Home Doesn’t Come with Mortgage Advice…I do!

by: Jim Cimba Barrister and Solicitor

by: Sue Ippolito RBC Mortgage Specialist Sound advice, smart strategies and helpful products from Sue Ippolito your RBC mobile mortgage specialist.

W

hether you’re about to buy your first home, or your fifteenth, you can always benefit from the professional services of an RBC Royal Bank mobile mortgage specialist. I can provide the right level of advice, products and strategies you need to make your home buying dream a reality.

When it comes right down to it, buying a home is a unique and highly personalized experience. No one else will have the same needs, expectations and desires as you. It makes sense that your mortgage should also be unique. It should reflect your current financial situation and your future plans, your beliefs about money and your home ownership goals.

Now is a great time to bring your mortgage to RBC. Let me review your current mortgage and see how we can SAVE YOU MONEY. Don’t miss out – the “Switch for Free and Save” is a limited time offer.

Let us offer you a NO-OBLIGATION PRE-APPROVAL so you can be in

control by knowing how much you can afford to pay for a home. Take advantage of today’s historically low rate’s and provide security for the long term.

Specializing In: • Self Employed Clients • New Immigrants to Canada • Equity Mortgages • Construction Mortgages • Investment Properties By choosing Sue Ippolito, your RBC Royal Bank Mobile Specialist, you can rest assured that I will be there to help you, both today and in the future.

Whether it’s time to buy another home, or time to talk about refinancing or switching in, simply give me a call for the same personalized, attentive service and indepth mortgage advice that you’ve come to expect from RBC Royal Bank.

CALL TODAY Tel: (905) 648-8567 Fax (905) 648-8571 Email sue.ippolito@rbc.com CREATE a future with peace of mind. -

E

ach time real estate is purchased in the Province of Ontario, provincial land transfer tax is payable, based on an escalating formula set by the government.

For purchases of real estate where the purchase price is $55,000.00, or less, the tax rate is 0.5% of the purchase price.

That equates to land transfer tax of $275.00 on a real estate purchase of $55,000.00.

Where the purchase price is from $55,001.00 up to and including $250,000.00 the tax rate is 0.5% of the first $55,000.00 of purchase price, plus 1.0% of the purchase price from $55,000.00 up to and including $250,000.00. On a $250,000.00 purchase of real estate then, the land transfer tax payable would be $1,950.00.

The tax rate is 1.5% of the purchase price where the purchase price is between $250,000.00 and $400,000.00. Thus, on a real estate purchase of $400,000.00, the land transfer tax payable would be $4,475.00 (i.e.) $275.00 (0.5%) on the first $55,000.00 of purchase price, plus $1,950.00 (1.0%) of the purchase price between $55,000.00 and $250,000.00, plus $2,250.00 (1.5%) of the purchase price between $250,000.00 and $400,000.00.

On real estate purchases of greater than $400,000.00 the land transfer tax rate is 2.0% of the purchase price that exceeds $400,000.00, plus 1.5% of the purchase price between $250,000.00 and $400,000.00, plus 1.0% of the purchase price between $55,000.00 and $250,000.00, plus 0.5% of the purchase price on the first $55,000.00 of the purchase price.

First time home buyers are entitled to a land transfer tax exemption of up to $2,000.00. When two people buy a home together, and one is a first time home buyer, and the other is not, the first time buyer is entitled to fifty per cent (50%) of the applicable land transfer tax exemption.

For further information I invite you to contact me personally at: Cimba & Associates Barristers and Solicitors 25 Main Street West Suite 1615 Hamilton, Ontario L8P 1H1 Phone: 905-522-1382 ext. 223 Email: jcimba@on.aibn.com

Builder’s special – Townhomes sTarTing from The mid $190’s MenusOnly.com is an online restaurant menu guide connecting you with great restaurants in the Hamilton and Burlington areas. Browse through restaurant menus, view pictures of restaurant dining areas, patios, and menu items, and print local restaurant coupons all in one place.

MenusOnly.com – a perfect dining experience -Å starts here.

Located at the base of Beamsville's escarpment within the heart of Niagara's wine region.

This community offers affordable living in an exclusive new neighourhood by the "Greenbelt".

Nestled in Beamsville's Vineyards of Grandview PRE-REGISTER AND QUALIFY FOR $10,000 IN FREE UPGRADES

Executive Towns: 1300 up to 1621 sq.ft • Single Bungalows: 1400 sq.ft • 2 Storey Singles: 2165 sq.ft and up

Call Rob Golfi

905-945-0188 or 905-575-7700 www.RobGolfi.com

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Happy Holidays Maximum Exposure Sells Your Home Call the Golfi Team to get your Home Sold 905-575-7700 or 905-945-0188 www.golfiteam.com The GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada.

www.golfiteam.com

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December 2009

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

Entertain your kids by baking a new house Holiday Fun: (NC)—The kids are out of school, at home, excited about the holiday season and full of energy.

Instead of letting their enthusiasm get the best of you, funnel it in to some positive and artistic projects.

Baking is one of the best ways to create some lasting (and messy) holiday memories with your kids. Tie on the aprons, turn on the festive music and let the magic begin with “kid-friendly” holiday recipes that will inspire creativity and bring a smile to every family member.

“A classic recipe to make with your kids during the holidays is a gingerbread house,” says Trish Magwood, chef and mother of three. “Because the recipe is traditionally precarious, I have a great suggestion to keep spirits up (as well as the roof). By substituting a Rice Krispies Square mixture for the wall and roof, you can avoid caved-in houses and unhappy cooks!”

After the base is built, let the creativity flow and watch a fantasy house unfold with colourful

decoration. You can find other creative holiday recipes like this one online at www.ricekrispies.ca.

Ingredients: 125 mL (1/2 cup) 500 g (2 pkg) 5 mL (1 tsp) 3 L (12 cups) Prepared frosting

margarine or butter (about 80) regular marshmallows or 10 cups miniature vanilla (optional) holiday Rice Krispies cereal

Gumdrops Candy coated milk chocolate pieces Red cinnamon candies Powdered sugar Candy sprinkles 1. In a large saucepan over low heat, melt 3 tablespoons margarine and 5 cups marshmallows and stir until completely melted. When marshmallows have melted, increase heat to medium and cook for two minutes longer or until mixture starts to boil. Stir in 1/2 tsp vanilla. Add 6 cups of cereal, stirring until well coated. Quickly press into 32 cm x 22 cm pan coated with cooking spray. Set aside.

2. While mixture is cooling repeat step one, pressing mixture evenly into a 40 cm x 26 cm pan lightly coated in cooking spray.

3. Assemble House: Turn the first pan of squares onto a foil lined tray with right side up. This will be the base of the house.

4. Cut the second pan of squares into six 12.5 cm x 9 cm rectangles while still in pan.

Page 5 5. Remove the six cut pieces from the pan. Set aside the remainder of the mixture for chimney doors and windows.

6. Cut front and back walls. Angle sharp knife from left side wall to centre of front side wall and cut off corners. Repeat cut back wall.

7. Preheat oven to low heat. Place all cut pieces about 3 cm apart on a cookie sheet covered with cooking spray. Cook for 25 minutes. Remove from oven. Reshape pieces with knife or spatula.

Cool completely. Remove pieces from cookie sheet.

8. Generously pipe prepared frosting on each end of the side walls. Stand the front wall on the centre of the house base. Attach right side wall. Then attach the back and left side walls.

9. To attach roof, place prepared frosting around the top edges of the front and back wall. Attach remaining pieces to form the roof. Use reserved pieces to make chimney, a door and window. Use prepared frosting to attach pieces to house.

Decorate with candy as desired. Use powdered sugar to resemble snow. www.newscanada.com Trish Magwood photo credit: Brandon Barré photo

Stoney Creek & Winona Rob Golfi* just listed wAterfront

just listed

wAterfront

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

CODE # RR35

CODE # 85-9

CODE # W62

STONEY CREEK $389,900 4+1 Bedroom

STONEY CREEK $469,900 Waterfront Condo on Marina

STONEY CREEK $699,900 Exclusive Waterfront

UPPER STONEY CREEK $579,900 W O W ! Factor

Spacious, bright & immaculate. Fresh paint, crown moulding, porcelain tile & Kulm Hardwood. A beautiful eat-in kitchen, separate living & dining room, main flr. den & laundry room plus partially finished basement. New shingles (08) & underground sprinkler system.

Lakefront Living! 2 Bdrm fully fin’d unit w/ hrdwd, ceramic, marble & new Berber carpet. Maple cabinetry in kit, lrg master plus luxury 4pc ensuite. Prof. fin’d bsmt & so much more!

Waterfront! Rare find on private lane close to Fifty Point Conservation area.

101ft of waterfront, park like setting and solid 3 bedroom bungalow. Substantial breakwall, well treed mature lot, amazing sunrises & sunsets included!

Incredible open concept! 3+1 bedroom with upgrades beyond the ordinary! Custom kitchen, fully finished basement, beautifully landscaped, decorated like a magazine centre spread!! All the bells and whistles here, put it on your must see list!

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

Selling your Home?

Home Evaluations

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

CODE # KE169

CODE # D7

No Cost or Obligation CODE # W24

CODE # F7

STONEY CREEK $273,900 3+2 Bedroom

STONEY CREEK $294,900 Backs onto Turtle Sanctuary

STONEY CREEK $379,900 Steps to the Lake

Walk to the dairy!! Totally renovated top to bottom, this 3+2 bedroom raised ranch is set to sell! Gleaming hardwoods, Lower level perfect set up for in-law with separate entrance and kitchen. Huge lot – don’t hesitate!

Rare opportunity! Live in or rebuild on this huge lot. Updated plumbing, electrical, roof and more. Backing onto Turtle Pond with view of lake. Shares in neighbourhood lakefront park.

Designated environmentally sensitive area.

Solid 2 storey amongst executive homes in beautiful Lakefront community. 4 bedrooms, 2 with walk-ins, the master suite with 4pc ensuite.

Beautiful kitchen with Maple cabinetry & ceramics. Open concept and gleaming hardwoods.

Call Rob

Golfi today

905-945-0188 or 905-575-7700 NOT INTENDED TO SOLICIT PROPERTIES CURRENTLY LISTED FOR SALE.

commerciAl residentiAl

duPleX

CODE # P27

CODE # F90

CODE # F196

CODE # M399

STONEY CREEK $235,900 Freehold End Unit

STONEY CREEK $469,900 Steps to the Lake!

STONEY CREEK $210,000 Attention Investors!

STONEY CREEK $289,900 East Access

1450 sq ft freehold end unit. 3 bedrooms, awesome custom kitchen with granite counter & breakfast bar, dinette with bay window & garden door to yard.

Gleaming Maple floors throughout and oak staircase.

Executive living in this 4 bedroom with over $42,000 in upgrades! Gleaming Mirage hardwood floors, granite countertops, pantry & butlers service walk. 3 full baths on the upper level!

Double Door entry to master suite!

Duplex with fantastic income or In-law potential. Great location for commuters with quick QEW access, close to Hwy 8.

Deep creek side lot, get your greenthumb going!

Terrific opportunity! Zoned MG(S) and located with easy access to the highway.

3 bedroom home with huge living room, finished basement, eat-in kitchen, plenty of room inside & out. Slider from dining room to deck. New windows and furnace.

Call Today 905-945-0188

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Page 6

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

December 2009

Housing Performance Expected to Accelerate in 2010 as Economic Stability Returns to Canadian Markets

Mississauga, ON (December 3, 2009) -- In the midst of one of the most tumultuous economic periods in recent history, residential real estate has proven to be a safe harbour, with sales and average price expected to post gains in most major Canadian cities in 2009, according to a report released today by RE/MAX. The RE/MAX Housing Market Outlook for 2010 examined residential real estate trends in 23 markets. The report found that sales are forecast to recover in almost all major centres by year- end 2009, led by an anticipated 45 per cent increase in Greater Vancouver.

Two markets -- Ottawa and Quebec City -- are expected to hit historic highs in the number of homes sold.

Average price should post new records in 65 per cent of markets As economic surveyed this year. performance ramps up across the

country, so too will residential real estate. Eighty- three per cent of markets (19/23) are expecting sales to increase over 2009 levels while housing values are forecast to escalate in 91 per cent (21/23) of Canadian centres in 2010.

The remaining markets will match 2009 levels.

Approximately 465,000 homes are expected to change hands nationally in 2009, a seven per cent increase over one year ago. Canadian housing values are forecast to close the year at $318,000, up five per cent from $303,594 in 2008. By year-end 2010, the number of homes sold is predicted to climb another two per cent to 475,000 units. The average price of a home is also expected to experience an uptick, rising two per cent to $325,000 – the highest level in Canadian history.

“2009 was without question the year of the house,” says Michael Polzler, Executive Vice President, RE/MAX Ontario-Atlantic Canada. “Real estate not only defied industry and analysts’ predictions in 2009 -- it’s performance went well beyond the realm of expectation by boosting consumer confidence levels and ultimately kick starting the national economic engine.

While low interest rates were a principle factor driving home buying activity, no one can discount the value that Canadians place in owning a home.”

The upswing in residential housing values speaks volumes. By year-end 2009, average price is expected to increase in 15 of the 23 markets surveyed, led by St. John’s, NF (15 per cent); Quebec City, QC (eight per cent); Regina, SK (seven per cent); Saint John, NB (six per cent); and Winnipeg, MB, Ottawa, ON, and Greater Toronto, ON

(five per cent). Other noteworthy developments include shattered price benchmarks in Greater Vancouver at $600,000; Toronto at $400,000; Ottawa at $300,000; and Quebec City and St. John’s at $200,000. St. John’s will once again lead the country in terms of percentage increase in average price in 2010 with a projected upswing of 11 per cent. Quebec City and Regina are expected to experience escalation of six per cent, while Calgary, Kelowna, and Victoria are forecast to climb five per cent next year. Victoria, Kelowna, Edmonton and Calgary – all down marginally in 2009 – are all positioned for growth in 2010.

“Some of the greatest percentage gains were reported in Western Canadian markets in 2009– demonstrating the higher the peak, the lower the valley,” says Elton Ash, Regional Executive Vice President, RE/MAX of Western, Canada.

“That said, the recession barely registered on year-over-year activity in most major centres. The economic fundamentals in place going forward ideally position the ten provinces, and the sector overall, for further growth.”

The major frontrunners in terms of unit sales appreciation in 2010, are all located in Western Canada, including Kelowna with an anticipated upswing of 10 per cent in housing sales; Calgary with an expected increase of eight per cent: and Victoria, which rounds out the top three with a seven per cent hike forecast for unit sales.

“Canadians continue to demonstrate their commitment to homeownership – regardless of the economic climate,” says Sylvain Dansereau, Executive Vice President, RE/MAX Quebec. “No where

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in Canada is that more evident than in Quebec. The province, with one of highest percentage of renters in the country, is well-poised for an escalation in homeownership levels as renters enter the market en masse to take advantage of ideal market conditions. Prices remain well under the national average, making ownership more attainable and leaving more room for appreciation that’s been long overdue.”

A number of factors will help prop up activity going forward, including improved economic conditions, continued low interest rates, rising consumer confidence and solid capital spending which will buoy employment.

Inventory will once again assume the wildcard role, with any decline placing upward pressure on prices. Multiple offers will remain the exception in most markets, more commonplace on quality entry-level product which remains in tight supply.

RE/MAX is Canada’s leading real estate organization with over 17,000 sales associates situated throughout its more than 677 independently-owned and operated offices across the country. The RE/MAX franchise network, now in its 36th year, is a global real estate system operating in more than 70 countries.

Over 6,700 independently-owned offices engage nearly 100,000 member sales associates who lead the industry in professional designations, experience and production while providing real estate services in residential, commercial, referral, and asset management.

For more information, visit: www.remax.ca.

-Å

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MarketWatch_December09_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 04/12/09 1:38 PM Page 7

December 2009

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

Page 7

Hamilton Wentworth Rob Golfi*

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

CODE # D132

CODE # E212

CODE # J16

CODE # H199

$259,900 wEST HAMILTON Near MacMaster

wEST HAMILTON $299,900 3+1 Bedroom

$257,900 HAMILTON MOUNTAIN Immaculate Semi

$339,900 wEST HAMILTON Custom Built Beauty

Ideal location for Student Rental, walk to Mac and amenities. 5 bedrooms, 2 baths, appliances included. Easy to maintain size lot, single drive and garage. Great investment opportunity!

Fantastic 3+1 BR and room for more!

Ideal student rental or get inside and get creative! Award winning landscaping, wonderful use of property for outdoor enjoyment. Tons of storage space, builtins, very open and spacious interior.

1425 sq ft Semi. Warm & inviting decor, very spacious. Open concept main level.

Upstairs 3 bedrooms, the master with his & hers closets. Auto garage door opener & inside entry to dream garage!

Custom built 2000 sq ft 3BR! Quality materials throughout.

Gleaming hardwood, cobblestone tiles, granite countertops. Patterned concrete in basement & garage. Huge Master suite with walk-in. Walk to Hess, Locke & downtown.

duPleX

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # SC21

CODE # G580

CODE # C208

CODE # A42

HAMILTON CENTRAL $163,900 Attention Investors

EAST HAMILTON $289,900 Spotless 4 bedroom!

HAMILTON MOUNTAIN $214,900 Sweet Deal!

wEST MOUNTAIN $239,900 Won't Last!

Legal non-conforming duplex or large family home. Terrific for in-law set-up!

Main floor with original trim, hardwood floors and fireplace. Updated plumbing, electrical and furnace. Fenced yard and parking for 2 cars. Check out the neighbourhood and see the potential here!

Walk to waterfront trail & confederation park!

Bright & spacious with family sized kitchen!

Huge yard fenced accessible from kit & basement. Updates include new shingles (09), furnace & C/Air (06).

Terrific 3 bedroom home just steps from the Hospital. LR/DR combo with gas FP. New furnace & C/Air in 2005. Beautiful sun rm addition w/access to private yard & multi level deck.

Wonderful 3 bedroom in great neighbourhood – won’t last! Newer windows, beautiful hardwood floors, spacious living room, eat-in kitchen with large dining area. Fully finished basement, fenced yard.

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON CODE # G110

CODE # B225

HAMILTON MOUNTAIN $279,900 Excellent Location

HAMILTON CENTRAL $152,900 Larger than life!

Great neighbourhood! 4+1 bedroom with tons of room! Eat-in kitchen, French doors to family room with walk-out to a private yard. Many updates including Hieff furnace, marble flooring, windows and more!

Fabulous kitchen with walk-in pantry and ceramic floors. Huge living room with hardwood floors. 3 bedrooms, main bath with whirlpool tub. Many updates and basement with high ceiling. Near Gage Park & Ivor Wynn Stadium!

CODE # B113

CODE # C123

$159,900 Super Starter

EAST HAMILTON $189,900 Terrific Location

Super starter! Lots original charm and practical updates. Eat-in kitchen has been updated and boasts ample cabinetry & bright eating area. Upper level w/master with slider to balcony. Private fenced yard. Appliances included!

Clean and spacious one floor brick home.

Gleaming hardwoods, updated bath, shingles and weeping tiles. Eat-in kitchen, newer windows and fenced private yard with patio. Terrific location close to bus routes and amenities.

HAMILTON

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # G271

CODE # W698

CODE # __

EAST HAMILTON $159,900 Front Porch Charm!

HAMILTON CENTRAL $319,900 6 Bedrooms & More

HAMILTON CENTRAL $149,900 Great Location!

HAMILTON MOUNTAIN $224,999 Priced to Go!

Updated 2 BR. Renovated kitchen with new cabinetry and granite countertop.

Sunroom with door to terrific deck with gazebo. Fenced yard has huge shed w/loft and set up for city gardening.

Newly built 2 storey home. 6 bedrooms and 2 more roughed in downstairs including a roughed in bath. Ideal for large family to move in together for ecomonic reasons. Plenty of parking front & rear. Don’t miss out!

Great Location! Near all amenities! 3 bedroom home with garage. Updated furnace (08), shingles (04), most windows, 100 amp service on breakers, copper plumbing, concrete walkway (08), ceramic and laminate flooring. Basement in drywall stage with bathroom and kitchen rough-in.

Affordable 3 bedroom priced to go! Eatin kitchen, spacious living room, hardwood floors. Fenced yard and plenty of parking. Close to schools, shopping and the Linc. Great starter home or investment property.

Call Today 905-945-0188

CODE # M350

MarketWatch_December09_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 04/12/09 1:38 PM Page 8

Page 8

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

Reasons for Renovating in the Current Economy by: Joe Keca Home Improvement Group

W

hen people are caught up in the news surrounding a slow economy the first response is to pull back and guard the gates. It's not easy to sit through night after night of bad economic news and many businesses suffer because people are stopping their plans as a result.

However, when there is such an economic slowdown there are many advantages to going ahead with planned renovations or making new ones. Because even though home prices have dipped below the price of previous years there is a long history of real estate markets bouncing back within a few years. Of course this does not include homes that are bought in a super-inflated economy as these homes will take years to regain their value. But money invested in a home on a regular bases is almost recession-proof and proves time-after-time to be a solid investment 1. Location Having a home in a desirable location is one of the best reasons to renovate.

Even if the home will not be resold for a long time the value will increase and so will the equity. This means that future large purchases like a recreational vehicle or cottage can be acquired because of the value built up in the residence. As the old saying goes “even an outhouse on a piece of land in a good location is a good investment.”

2. Contractors Economic booms are like runaway trains: There is no driver. What happens during these times is that residential growth explodes and labour is in short supply. This means that many projects are rushed, or could be built by inexperienced workers, and some of the failsafe devices and self-examination by contractors’ quality inspectors are hurried. Many experienced contractors will only take as much work as they can handle but too many will land the job first and then worry about how they will find the crews to work it. As a result the courts are rife with homeowners suing contractors over shoddy workmanship and, to the dismay of the complainants, a lot of these companies go belly up in a recession. This means that there’s no one to either get money from or fix the problems so there will be another large expenditure just to complete something that has already been paid.

The contractors who survive slow times are experienced as many have seen these slow periods before where renovation and construction leads are down.

This is because the companies or individuals are good business people. So there is a good chance that a homeowner can get a qualified renovator simply by picking one who has been in business for more than a decade. Of course all contractor’s references followed but these companies

MarketWa tch-Dog MarketWatch-Dog Each issue, The Golfi Team will showcase a ‘marketwatch-dog’; a family companion from one of our current listings.

Meet...‘Brody’

This issues’ MarketWatch-Dog calls Grimsby home. Named after Brody Jenner from the hit TV show “The Hills”, this mighty little fellow will be one year old in April. Brody is a Malti-Poo, which is a mix between Maltese and Poodle. He has just recently discovered his bark. His owners thought maybe he was destined to be a silent puppy and think his bark is quite cute – they may change their minds later! Walking on a leash is another new discovery for Brody, he’s not too sure about cars passing by, but he sure loves all the attention he gets. He loves other dogs and is quite the social butterfly.

Favourite pass-times of Brody’s include squirrel chasing – in a standoff the squirrel always wins, but he never gives up, it’s just too much fun – the squirrels just keep coming back! Also a ‘digger’, he is currently digging a new pool in the yard and helping with the landscaping for next spring.

Brody’s family has learned to keep their socks on snug, for when given the opportunity, Brody will snatch them right off their feet and run like mad to hide them amongst his secret sock collection. Brody won't waste a moment away from his family's attention – and only appears to sleep at night when the family is also fast asleep or if they are away from home, but here at Golfi Team headquarters, we believe Brody is probably counting his socks…

Look for our next MarketWatch-dog in the next issue of Market Watch!

will have also kept their best people and are hungry for work to keep them going until better times arrive. This means that the homeowner can expect better service, workmanship and attention to deadlines - qualities that are often missing during a good economy.

3. Costs When the economy is hot and building is in a frenzy, the cost of labour and materials goes up. It’s simply a matter of supply-and-demand, especially in general construction. The forest crews who cut the wood, the manufacturing personnel and the builders are pushing the envelope to get the required goods and services to the developers and home builders so prices on labour and materials begins to escalate.

In slow times materials companies still have shareholders to satisfy but also want to hold onto personnel that they have invested large amounts to train. They know they will have to drop the prices and so will demand a price drop from the people who supply them raw materials. This is then passed on to the contractor who is also trying to keep trained crews working.

So the contractor can buy materials cheaper and can pay a more reasonable wage for carpenters and subtrades to, for example, tile a bathroom, than they could during a building boom. This saving is then passed onto the homeowner.

December 2009 4. Time and Mess One of the biggest problems with large renovation is that the contractor is saddled with other jobs and so are his or her crews and subtrades. For the contractor this makes scheduling a delicate balancing act and many times the homeowner is left living in a mess for weeks at a time. For example, if the addition is ready to drywall but the plumber has not completed his or her work then nothing more can be down. This throws the drywall crews off their schedule, as well as the painters and the flooring people. This is usually because of, again, new and more lucrative work dangled in front of the subtrades that is not easy to pass up.

In a more relaxed economy, or a recession, work is the Holy Grail of survival and so renovations are, for the most part, performed to the best of professional standards. In some cases where the family has to move out for a large refurbishment, the work is scheduled around the clock so that the inconvenience is only short term.

5. The Cost of Money and Rebates Since the 1990’s banks have been lending money in single-digit interest and recently this has dropped to extreme lows. For the qualified borrower who does a major renovation this means that the cost of the project will be even cheaper over the long run because of the savings in money owed to the bank. The Federal government has also been offering both energy rebates and tax credits to homeowners so this will bring the price down even further.

Joe Keca is a specialist in complete building and interior renovations with the Home Improvement Group. He can be reached at 905-309-5555.

-Å

Rob Golfi, SRES

®

Rob is a Seniors Real Estate Specialist (SRES®) according to the Seniors Real Estate Specialist Council of the NATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF REALTORS®.

Of the 56,000 Real Estate Agents in Ontario, there are only about 100 with the SRES® designation and all were required to successfully complete a comprehensive course in understanding the needs, considerations, and goals of the real estate buyers and sellers aged 50 and older. Rob specializes in helping seniors that are looking for a lifestyle change, whether it be downsizing to a condominium, a smaller house, an apartment or even assisted living.

Rob’s consultation process covers everything from selling your home, finding a new home, disposing of furniture, staging and cleaning as well as assisting in the move. Rob’s goal is to handle everything and ensure that the transition goes as smooth and pleasant as possible for everyone.

Contact Rob today at 905-575-7700.

-Å

The Golfi team supports the SPCA’s of Ontario.

www.golfiteam.com

MarketWatch_December09_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 04/12/09 1:38 PM Page 9

Home Evaluation No Cost or Obligation

Call Rob Golfi Today!

905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188 not intended to solicit proper ties cur rently listed for sale.

Beamsville, Jordan, Vineland & West Lincoln

Rob Golfi* just listed

just listed

CODE # iG4550

just listed

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

CODE # S16

CODE # B543

CODE # S4239

BEAMSVILLE $334,900 Fabulous 3 Bedroom

SMITHVILLE $179,900 Freehold Townhome

BEAMSVILLE $267,900 Ravine Setting

Great layout for this 2000 sq ft 3+1 bedroom beauty! Formal living room, separate dining room, sunken family room and huge eat-in kitchen. Updated C/A, shingles, new carpets and some new doors & windows â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Great family neighbourhood!

Fabulous Freehold! 3 bedrooms home, ideal for a young family. Professionally finished basement, multi level decking in yard is maintenance free. Eat-in kitchen and spacious living room. Fresh & bright, just move in!

ST. CATHARINES $212,900 3 Bedroom Bungalow

5 Acres

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON

BEAMSVILLE Farmland

Great north end location with in-law suite. Freshly painted, new countertops, sink and faucet plus some new flooring and original hardwood flrs. Loads of updates. Time to move and enjoy! 1100 Sq. ft. Fully Fenced yard.

Ravine setting for this 3 bedroom beauty.

Fully finished top to bottom, inside & out. Eat-in kitchen with slider to back deck & fenced yard. Corner gas fireplace in living room. Lower level beautifully finished.

on rAVine

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON

CODE # A4927

$149,900

BEAMSVILLE $254,900 Family Style

BEAMSVILLE $324,900 Executive Style

FONTHILL $199,900 Mature Neighbourhood

Room for a growing family in this 3+2 bedroom home! Finished top to bottom and bright open living areas, it boasts a huge family sized kitchen, fully finished basement, 2 full baths and walk-to-town location.

Treed ravine lot with a meandering stream is the location for this solid 4 bedroom. Situated amongst executive homes and loaded with extraâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s . Large principal rooms, hardwood flooring, fireplace in family room and rec room.

Solid 3 bedroom in lovely mature neighbourhood. Plaster construction, beautiful hardwood floors, living room with fireplace & finished rec room.

Updated siding, fenced yard & large 75 x 125 lot. Extra deep garage.

Almost 5 acres in the heart of Wine Country. Formally farmed as a vineyard, great soil for many varieties. Great Value!

15 Acres

CODE # HP4160

CODE # S8

CODE # JVL

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON

CODE # B1720

CODE # A4925

CODE # T4385

CODE # B4117

PELHAM $524,900 Tremendous Views

BEAMSVILLE $279,900 Beamsville Beauty

BEAMSVILLE $397,000 Natural Setting

BEAMSVILLE $199,900 Spotless 3+1 Bedroom

15 acres! Peaceful location with spacious principle rooms and convenient layout.

New windows, formal living room and separate dining room. Kitchen overlooks family room with fireplace and walkout to patio.

Sought after location, 3 bedroom, 2 storey home with partially finished basement. Spacious master bedroom with beautiful ensuite bath. Very private and fully fenced yard. Walk to schools & town .

Surrounded by nature! Situated on 2.4 acres, this escarpment setting is a rare find. 3 bedrooms, sun room, finished rec room with patio door walk-out, vaulted ceilings in the living room and tremendous view of the Lake.

Huge corner lot with 2 driveways. Spotless 3+1 bedrooms. California shutters, updated kitchen with maple cabinetry & ceramic backsplash. Spacious living room and separate dining room. New hi-eff furnace & C/Air, newer shingles.

Call Today 905-945-0188

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Page 10

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

Family Income Splitting

Home Staging During the Holidays

(Part 1 of 2) by: Paul Jespers Investment Advisor RBC Dominion Securities

by: Sheri Gamble, Details Event Coordination Inc.

S

elling your home during the holiday season can be stressful enough, but what do you do about staging and decorating to ensure a quick sale?

During the holiday season a special feel is in the air and a potential buyer will be thrown off if your home is shown exempt from all holiday decor.

First impressions start at the front door. Adding a simple but lovely wreath to your front door or at each side of your entryway can do wonders. Choose a wreath to complement the style of your home.

Use less of your ornament collection this year. Examine your room colors and compare to your holiday decorations. Do the reds clash? You may want to store ornaments with colors that don't add to the setting.

Don't over-crowd your rooms. You want your buyers to see your home’s features. Rooms filled to the brim with decorations stop the buyer’s eyes from visualizing their own furnishings in your home. Plus, crowded spaces feel smaller.

The smaller the square feet of the home, the less decor you need to use.

Keep it simple. A full sized tree may create a cramped room and inhibit traffic flow. If this is your case, you may want to consider a smaller tree this year, or one placed on a table top. Be careful not to cover every surface with your

December 2009

T

hroughout your life, many opportunities and choices will arise that have financial implications. This article explains how prescribed-rate loans can be used for income splitting with family members.

Income splitting between spouses involves shifting income from the spouse in the higher tax bracket to the spouse in the lower tax bracket. When taxed in the lower income spouse’s hands, the investment income is taxed at a lower rate than if it were taxed in the higher income spouse’s hands. This results in more after-tax income for the family and a larger total family asset base. The same principles apply to income splitting between a parent and a child. However, you cannot simply transfer funds to your lower income spouse or child by changing the name on your investment account.

This is due to the CRA’s enforcement of the “income attribution rules,” to prevent abusive income splitting strategies between spouses or a parent and a child.

CRA permits loans at prescribed rates to family members as a method to avoid income attribution rules provided that: • A formal loan exists between the parties • The rate of interest is at least the CRA prescribed rate at the time the loan is established (currently 1%) • The interest must be paid by the borrower to the lender annually

decorations. Leave some open spaces to give rooms a sense of spaciousness.

Sometimes a poinsettia or two is just enough.

A larger home can take quite a bit of decorating and the decor should be a bit more elaborate. Holiday home staging decorating doesn’t always have to be expensive. Ball ornaments for instance always look fresh. You can dress the tree, create clusters or put them in bowls – they’re a low-cost, high impact solution.

Go for abundance; buy what’s in your budget. Good holiday decor is about the wow factor; you don’t need expensive, precious ornaments. Buy one colour and lots of it!

Houses do sell all year long. If you're selling your home during the frantic holiday season, taking a few extra home staging steps can make a big difference in your sale. Call a home stager to help!

Happy Holidays!

Sheri Gamble and Gwen Kennedy are Home Stagers and Event Planners with Details Event Coordination. They can be reached at 905.632.2602 or via email at sheri@detailseventco.com or gwen@detailseventco.com. Visit their website at www.detailseventco.com -Å

Example: Walter has excess cash and wants to utilize a loan at the 1% prescribed rate to split income with his wife, Jane. Jane signs a simple promissory note to Walter for $200,000, which is payable upon demand at the prescribed rate of 1%, with interest paid annually.

Jane invests her $200,000 such that she is able to generate an annual return of 8%, or $16,000. Walter will receive $2,000 of interest income from Jane, while Jane will have $16,000 of investment income with a deduction of $2,000 for the interest expense she paid to Walter.

Income Interest expense Net income from loan

Walter $2,000 – $2,000

Jane $16,000 ($2,000) $14,000

Walter, who is in the top tax bracket (45%), is able to shift $14,000 of taxable income to Jane, who is in a lower tax bracket (25%). The 20% difference between their tax brackets will save them $2,800 on their total tax bill ($14,000 x 20%) in just the first year alone.

Read part 2 next month.

You can reach Paul Jespers, Investment Advisor at: 100 King Street West, Suite 1500 Hamilton Ph: 905-546-5840 paul.jespers@rbc.com www.PaulJespers.com

November Home Statistics are Inspiring!

(December, 2009 – Hamilton, Ontario) The Hamilton-Burlington area resale market reported a total of 1,082 units sold in November, indicating an increase of 59.4 per cent over the same month last year, but 0.6 per cent lower than November 2007. This indicated that the market has returned to sales levels equivalent to the period of 20052007.

The total unit sales for the first 11 months of 2009 are being reported at more than 3.8 per cent higher for the same period last year, while new units listed are eight per cent lower for the year-to-date, according to Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) statistics released by the REALTORS® Association of Hamilton- Burlington (RAHB).

“Hamilton-Burlington and surrounding area is seeing an impressive market,” said Joe Ferrante, RAHB President-Elect.

“With interest rates steady consumers continue to see area real estate as a sound

investment” added Ferrante.

In the residential market, 12,341 properties changed hands in the 12 months beginning December 1, 2008 and ending November 30, 2009. The average price of these properties was $289,914.

The number of properties listed during this period was 16,437. Compared to the preceding twelve months this is an increase of 1.9 per cent for sales, an increase of 2.1 per cent in average price and a decline in listings of 7.8 per cent.

Residential properties sold during November totalled 1,017 which included 800 freehold properties and 217 condominiums.

Commercial sales for November, including industrial, farm, vacant land and business, totalled 65 units.

The average price of freehold residential properties sold in the month of November was $332,318, an increase of 7.8 per cent over November last year, and are up 5.5 per cent from last month. The average sale price reflects the dollar vol-

ume of residential sales divided by the number of total residential units sold.

In the condominium market the average price of condominiums in November was $229,490, an increase of 6.3 per cent over November 2008 and an increase of 3.8 per cent from October.

The total number of units listed for sale during November was 1,360, which is 15 per cent more than were listed in the same period in 2008, but 10.6 per cent fewer than were listed in October.

“Market trends differ between cities, and among areas and housing types within a city,” added Ferrante. “For local market expertise and information, buyers and sellers should use the professional services provided by their REALTOR®.”

Unit sales reflect “all property types” including residential, condominiums, commercial property, farmland and sale of businesses.

Established in 1921, the REALTORS® Association of HamiltonBurlington (RAHB) represents more than 2,400 real estate brokers and salespersons from Hamilton, Burlington, and surrounding areas. Members of the association may use the REALTOR® trademark, which identifies them as real estate professionals who subscribe to a strict code of ethics. The association operates the local Multiple Listing Service® (MLS®) and provides ongoing professional education courses for its members. In addition, RAHB is an active participant in the Home Ownership Affordability Partnership (HOAP) and holds an annual auction in support of local charities.

Advertisements of local MLS® property listings and information about the services provided by a REALTOR® can be found at www.REALTOR.ca. More information about RAHB is available at www.rahb.ca.

The GOLFI TEAM is ranked in the Top 100 Re/Max Teams in Canada.

RE/MAX has over 18,000 Sales Representatives in Canada

www.golfiteam.com

Rob Golfi

Sharon Stafford

Hans Marcelissen

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Sales Representative

Wendy MurrayNicholson Sales Representative

MarketWatch_December09_MarketWatch_Transfer.qxd 04/12/09 1:38 PM Page 11

December 2009

The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

Page 11

Waterfront and Luxury Rob Golfi* just listed 3.2 Acres

wA terf ront

CODE # L71

GRIMSBY $1,750,000 2 Acre Lakefront Huge waterfront lot! 3+1 bedroom home with additional self contained in law suite. Open concept great room with cathedral ceilings, gleaming hardwood floors and floor to ceiling-wall to wall windows!

wA terf ront

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

Unique area, designated ‘environmentally sensitive’. Shares in Neighbourhood Lakefront park and backing onto Turtle pond, this property is truly one-of-a-kind.

Updated plumbing, electrical, roof and more. Huge lot – come see the possibilities!

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # R19

CODE # L95

CODE # L143

GRIMSBY $689,900 4 Bedroom Custom Built

$525,900 STONEY CREEK 350' Deep Lot

$1,499,900 GRIMSBY Fabulous Lakefront

A love-at-first-sight experience as you enter into this gorgeous 4 bedroom, custom-built beauty, located on 3.2 acres of private landscape. This one-of-a kind home boasts a bright and spacious layout with ample room for storage and a mature or growing family.

Remarkable 2000sqft with amazing views w/riparian rights. Features spacious family room with gas fireplace, 3 full size bdrms including den on upper floor underground sprinkler system, full shoreline protection, quick access to QEW.

Fabulous waterfront property! Custom built 3000 sq ft home with Lake views every room. Maple hardwood floors, granite counters, master suite with access to back deck, ensuite & walk-in shower.

Handicap adaptable!

wA terf ront

in-lAw

CODE # C33

CODE # B45

GRIMSBY

$679,900 Custom Design

Exquisite custom home nestled into the escarpment. 3 bedrooms plus in-law suite loaded with quality finishes and decorated with artistic flair. Master suite with 5pc ensuite, 2 walk-in closets and garden doors to back deck – paradise!

15 Acres

GRIMSBY

$669,900

CODE # B1720

$479,900 First Class!

PELHAM $524,900 Tremendous Views

2750 sq ft in executive neighbourhood close to the lake. 4 bedroom has loads of updates: carpets, shingles, ensuite with claw tub and glass shower, hi-eff furnace and more! Beautiful hardwoods and gorgeous fireplace.

15 acres! Peaceful location with spacious principle rooms and convenient layout.

New windows, formal living room and separate dining room. Kitchen overlooks family room with fireplace and walkout to patio.

wA terf ront

Waterfront!!

wEST LINCOLN $469,900 Country Living

3+1 bedroom in Bal Harbour with gleaming hardwood floors & new broadloom. Great room has wall-to-wall windows and spectacular lake views. Several walkouts to backyard paradise with heated inground pool surrounded by amazing perennial gardens.

Custom built 2650 sq ft country home.

4 huge bedrooms, aggregate patio off country kitchen done in solid maple.

Formal dining room, main floor den, spacious family room open to the kitchen. Only 15 minutes to Hamilton.

CODE # L120

GRIMSBY

$569,900

Waterfront Dollhouse!

Waterfront!! 4 bedroom home with gleaming hardwood floors, custom kitchen/great room with wall to wall windows & tremendous lakeviews.

Awesome Master bedroom retreat with private balcony.

wA terf ront

CODE # L6

CODE # D7

STONEY CREEK $579,900 W O W ! Factor Incredible open concept! 3+1 bedroom with upgrades beyond the ordinary!

Custom kitchen, fully finished basement, beautifully landscaped, decorated like a magazine centre spread!! All the bells and whistles here, put it on your must see list!

48 Acres

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE CODE # SB70

CODE # CC1751

SOLD R HE ANOT E ON

CODE # S29

GRIMSBY

1 Acre

SOLD R HE T O N A ONE

CODE # F7

STONEY CREEK $294,900 Backs onto Turtle Sanctuary

wAter fr ont

wA terf ront

CODE # W62

STONEY CREEK $599,900 Lakefront Oasis!

STONEY CREEK $649,900 Entertainer’s Dream

STONEY CREEK $699,900 Exclusive Waterfront

Waterfront w/riparian rights and private dock. A resort in your own backyard ‘Casa Seabreeze’!! Hardwood floors, sunken family room with picture window and view of TO Skyline. Luxury Master suite w/decadent ensuite and private balcony overlooking the Lake.

Soaring ceilings! Marple hardwoods, stained glass, custom kitchen open to bar/meeting area. 2 fireplaces, 3 bedrooms, 3+2 bathrooms, master bedroom w/ensuite & balcony. Ultimate yard with putting green, hot tub, patio & more! Close to lake, park & marina.

Waterfront! Rare find on private lane close to Fifty Point Conservation area.

101ft of waterfront, park like setting and solid 3 bedroom bungalow. Substantial breakwall, well treed mature lot, amazing sunrises & sunsets included!

Call 905-575-7700 / 905-945-0188

CODE # B227

GRIMSBY

$749,000 Country Living

Custom Colonial on 48 acres! 3 bedrooms with full finished attic. Master has 5pc ensuite w/euro shower and spa tub plus cedar lined closet. ¾” Oak plank floors, solid birch kitchen w/granite counters and cozy fireplace.

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The GOLFI TEAM Real Estate Market Watch

The

December 2009

GOLFI TEAM

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Rob Golfi Sales Representative

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